Out of the Frying Pan into the Fire

"Man proposes, but God disposes."

Tempest mused to herself as she learned this lesson the hard way.

She was aware that the mutated swamp was a master of disguise and had planned to use it to humiliate Kiba. Unfortunately, her plan backfired because she was unaware that the swamp was evolving and gaining sentience.

Earlier, the swamp used to attack based on instinct alone to satisfy its hunger, but now it acted with calculated precision. It now targeted prey that was powerful and useful for its evolution. Tempest fit the bill perfectly, while Adira and Elara, who were fighting nearby, did not, as they were weak and no longer useful as sustenance.

This was why the swamp did not target them or other warriors from the last few months, even though they believed it was because they were careful.

As for Kiba, the swamp had a feeling he was indigestible. So despite the powerful lifeforce he radiated, he wasn't a target for the swamp.